A new 36-bed shelter is on its way next year, but De Whalen, chair of the Richmond Poverty Response Committee, is mindful that many of the social services for the city’s growing homeless population remains dependent on both in-kind donations and financial contributions
And so, on Oct. 19, volunteers will host the 9th annual Homeless Connect event, which aims to provide a one-stop shop of such services and connect struggling residents with help.
“After eight years of holding Homeless Connect events, we would love to say that homelessness is ended in Richmond. It is not, but in looking back over the years, many things are in place that were not in Richmond before,” said Whalen.
For instance, St. Alban Anglican Church and the Richmond Salvation Army on Gilbert Road have become hubs of services for people who are experiencing homelessness and poverty, said Whalen.
But these places depend on volunteer hours and donations from the general public. And so, volunteers and donations are welcomed at Homeless Connect at St. Alban Anglican Church at 7260 St. Alban’s Road.
“For the day, this location becomes a one stop shop of services, starting at 9 a.m. with a pancake breakfast, followed with access to direct services such as haircuts, clothing, meals and healthcare as well as information and referral to services that can be accessed year round.
“The Homeless Connect planning committee is also asking Richmond residents to give a little extra this year so that donations can be forwarded on to the year round services that do not have regular funding — outreach services, life skills counselling, community education, the extreme weather shelter,” said Whalen.
Notably, outreach workers connect regularly with the more than 100 homeless individuals on Richmond streets, providing necessities of life, and personal connection to help make sustainable changes. Homeless people, or those in precarious situations, can drop into the Salvation Army for a daily lunch and referrals to needed services and programs. Meanwhile, St. Alban’s continues to offer weekly meals and showers.
But, “none of these services have regular funding,” said Whalen.
Monetary donations (cheque payable to Homeless Connect) are welcomed at Richmond Food Bank Society, located at 100-5800 Cedarbridge Way.
If you are interested in volunteering, send an email to Harry at [email protected].
